NEW YORK — The Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) is proud to announce the return of its highly acclaimed Discover Armenia Program, an immersive summer experience designed to connect Armenian youth ages 15 to 18 from around the world with their peers and ancestral homeland.
Through a powerful blend of cultural exploration, meaningful community service, and adventure, the program offers a life-changing summer experience that helps Diaspora teens strengthen their Armenian identity while building lifelong friendships.
Launched in 2003, Discover Armenia has become one of AGBU’s flagship youth initiatives, created for teens who have outgrown traditional summer camps but are ready for a purposeful, guided experience in Armenia. Participants travel across the country, explore historic and cultural landmarks, engage in hands-on workshops, and connect with peers from Armenia and the global Diaspora.
“At the heart of Discover Armenia is a commitment to helping young Armenians build authentic relationships – with one another and with their heritage,” said Gayane Manukyan, Director of Diaspora Youth Programs at AGBU. “Through immersive experiences and close collaboration with local communities, the program encourages participants to deepen their sense of identity and become invested in Armenia’s future.”
Sightseeing Adventures:
The Discover Armenia Program offers unique opportunities to participants that stand out from other programs. In addition to the many iconic sites, other adventures include exploring Areni Cave, home to the world’s oldest known winery, dating back over 6,000 years; the Wings of Tatev is the world’s longest reversible cable car, leading to the stunning Tatev Monastery, an important historic and spiritual landmark, and ziplining at Yell Extreme Park, which offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities.
A trip to Gyumri, Armenia’s cultural capital, provide a deep dive into the city’s artistic and historical richness. Participants explore the Kumayri district, where cobblestone streets lead to centuries-old architecture reflecting the resilience and character of the city. A visit to the Dzitoghtsyan Museum of Social Life and National Architecture offers insight into the daily lives of Gyumri’s past generations, while the Aslamazyan Sisters Gallery showcases the city’s vibrant artistic legacy. Through meaningful interactions with local craftsmen, painters, and musicians, participants experience firsthand the creativity and warmth that continue to define Gyumri today.
Participants also travel to Dilijan, known as the “Switzerland of Armenia,” which offers a refreshing combination of nature, history, and culture. Exploring centuries-old monasteries of Haghartsin and Goshavan, teens learn about Armenia’s medieval history and the scholars who shaped its literary and religious traditions. Beyond its historical sites, Dilijan is a hub for arts, crafts, and environmental conservation. Here, participants interact with local artisans, discovering traditional woodworking and pottery techniques, and gain an understanding of sustainable tourism and nature preservation efforts, highlighting Dilijan’s commitment to conservation and eco-friendly development.
The journey continues through the breathtaking Lori region, where participants visit the Hovhannes Tumanyan House-Museum in Dsegh and explore the monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin, gaining a deeper appreciation for Armenia’s cultural identity and timeless architectural treasures. To complete the experience, participants embrace the adventure of the homeland by overcoming the challenge of climbing Mount Aragats – building confidence, teamwork, and unforgettable memories in Armenia’s stunning highlands.
Workshops:
The program also includes expert-led workshops that bring Armenia’s rich cultural heritage to life. In the Armenian calligraphy workshop, participants learn the delicate strokes of the Armenian alphabet under the guidance of skilled calligraphers. The khachkar carving session provides hands-on experience with tuff stone, as expert stone carvers teach the techniques behind one of Armenia’s most iconic art forms. Culinary enthusiasts engage in traditional Armenian cooking, preparing dishes such as dolma, gata, and lavash while exploring the deep cultural significance behind Armenian cuisine.
Community Service:
Alongside exploration, Discover Armenia places strong emphasis on service and meaningful engagement with local communities. Participants contribute to community service projects that may include supporting renovation initiatives that transform community spaces into youth centers, participating in eco clean-up efforts to protect Armenia’s natural environment, and connecting with vulnerable communities through volunteer outreach. These experiences also provide participants with 20 to 60 community service hours, depending on the session. Many participants describe some of the most impactful moments as those spent visiting seniors at AGBU Senior Dining Centers and engaging with displaced families and children from Artsakh, offering companionship, support, and hope through simple acts of care.
By the end of the program, participants leave Armenia with far more than memories. They return home with a deeper sense of identity, a stronger bond with Armenia, and the confidence that their actions can create meaningful change.
Discover Armenia is open to young Armenians worldwide, with applications available on the official AGBU website. Spring dates are March 28 – April 6, Summer Session 1 dates are June 25 – July 13, and Summer Session 2 dates are July 28 – August 15. As spots are limited and sessions fill quickly, interested individuals are encouraged to apply early.
For more information about Discover Armenia and how to apply, please visit https://agbu.org/discover-armenia.
